WJSN officer in front of Congregation Beth Jehudah

Wisconsin Jewish Security Network

Synagogue Security Grant Program

Overview

Synagogues throughout the state are eligible to receive up to $5,000 in funding. Application information for the SSGG program is below. New changes for the 2025-26 year include that the funds will be distributed in two installments, and grantees are required to submit two brief reports during the grant period.

Details

 

Applications for the 2025-2026 period are no longer being accepted.

The 2026-2027 application period will open at the end of the summer of 2026. Please see the documents below for more information about the grant.

In addition to the SSGG program, WJSN offers a variety of security services to all Jewish organizations in the state, at no cost. These services include security assessments, security training, and incident response services. 

Contact WJSN staff below to learn more.

Wisconsin Jewish Security Network

Request security

Complete this form to have a WJSN security presence at your next event.

Connect

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Ari Friedman

Ari Friedman is the Executive Director of the Wisconsin Jewish Security Network (WJSN), leading security strategy and operations for more than 60 Jewish organizations statewide, including schools, synagogues, and community centers. With 18 years of experience in community safety, crisis management, and infrastructure protection, he strengthens preparedness and resilience through close partnerships with law enforcement, government, and community leadership.  

Previously, Ari served as Security Director for the 2015 JCC Maccabi Games, coordinating security for 1,000 international athletes across 17 venues. He holds certifications in Advanced Critical Infrastructure Protection, Critical Asset Risk Management, Critical Infrastructure Security and Resilience,  Fusion Liaison Officer, Executive Protection, FEMA emergency management, and First Responder CPR/First Aid. Through WJSN, Ari is committed to sustaining a strong culture of safety and preparedness statewide. 

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  • Josh Martinson
  • Deputy Director of Security Operations
  • Email | Phone
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Josh Martinson

  • Deputy Director of Security Operations
  • Email | Phone
Joshua Martinson serves as the Deputy Director of Security Operations, at Wisconsin Jewish Security Network, a partner of the Milwaukee Jewish Federation. Josh plays a key role in advancing the organizations mission to provide security, strengthening and sustaining Jewish Life in Milwaukee and the State of Wisconsin.
At the Wisconsin Jewish Security Network, Josh partners, works with security professionals and with local, county, state and federal Law Enforcement Agencies to ensure that the Jewish community in Wisconsin is safe from threats.
Outside of work Josh enjoys camping with his wife and 2 French bulldogs, hunting, kayaking, as well as coaching and playing soccer.
  • Alex Cohen Poylov
  • Security Program Manager
  • Email | Phone
  • Scot Henry
  • IT and Cybersecurity Manager
  • Email | Phone